Make Waves

Aquariums, from massive saltwater tanks to small desktop dwellings for goldfish, have captivated people from all walks of life. “We have an innate fascination with the ocean,” says Felix Bordon, the owner of Reef Savvy, a company that designs and manufactures custom glass aquariums and reef tanks, which house live corals, fish and other critters that recreate natural reef environments. “While nothing beats the real thing, having a tiny slice of something you love so close is a way to experience the ‘feel good’ sensation you get when you go to the beach, go boating or even drive by the ocean and smell the breeze,” he adds. For Rick Marot, a co-owner of Seascape Aquarium & Pet Center, residents of the Gulf Coast have a predisposition for enthusiasm towards the aquatic world. “This area has always had a big public interest in the marine environment. People are in tune with what’s happening in terms of bay health, red tide and the effects of pollution,” he says. Marot, who studied Marine Biology at the University of South Florida, educates consumers about the importance of caring for marine ecosystems in his shop, which also builds and maintains aquariums of varying sizes. Hobbyists can start small and build up to their dream tanks; Reef Savvy produces aquariums of up to 1,500 gallons. “Aquariums are educational and teach responsibility, especially for kids,” Bordon says. “Some studies show that they are therapeutic, reduce stress and have a calming effect on people.” On a larger scale, Marmot adds that “the marine hobby has evolved to growing and propagating coral, and with the warming ocean waters it’s more important that we teach people about these environments. For this reason, I think there will be a resurgence in the hobby—especially with people growing corals that can withstand warmer temperatures. The future is in our hands.”